5 Tips to Helping a Friend in a Harmful Relationship

It hurts to see someone you care about struggling in a relationship that seems to take away their joy and happiness. It is natural to want to look for ways of to help. Sadly, your friend may not be ready to listen to you. Worse still, it may be difficult for you to determine whether you’ll regret trying to solve the issue as your words may deepen the wounds they already have.

On the other hand, some people may appear happy and bright on the outside when they’re suffering from the effects of a harmful relationship in a real sense. If you realize that your close friend has this issue, then it’s possible to assist them. Here are some tips you need to help someone who is in a pestilent relationship.

1. Listen
Friends can go far if they love listening to one another. As your friend talks, support him or her and do not apply any pressure. Aggression is one of the worst things because it can push away your pal. When someone is heartbroken, what they need most is a person who can listen to them.

2. Air Your Concerns
One of the things that make your friend’s unhealthy relationship is when you lean on either extreme side, become silent on them, or strongly advise them to end the affair. The way to win the fight is to stay neutral. This is because your pal may be in self-doubt, making it difficult for them to see things clearly.
Airing your concerns is very important, especially when you know how to spot domestic violence. Speak up if you’re suspecting that your friend is a victim of abuse. Don’t hesitate and feel that you might be wrong or that your pal may not want to disclose their secrets. Your concern could let the person feel you care about them. You may even save a life!

3. Share Your Own Story
If you’ve ever been in a harmful relationship before, then you have a very powerful weapon to help your friend. Talk about your own toxic love story so as to identify with the person who is currently suffering. However, do not share in a way to condemn your friend. Be as gentle as possible.

4. Say What You Think Honestly
One of the most important ways of helping your friend who is in a harmful relationship is by being direct and honest with the person. Tell them just what they need, not what their ears are itching to hear. Your pal may value your take on the matter more seriously if they feel that you are honest with them. However, maintain a gentle attitude while talking.

5. Avoid Judging and Criticizing
There are chances that your friend is already processing the problem to find a lasting solution. Therefore, do not begin judging or criticizing them straightaway. It’s always wise to go with an open mind and hear what your pal has to say about the issue before making a comment.
Conclusion
Since relationships are very complex, it’s always wise to be careful when helping a friend who is in a toxic one. Otherwise, you may end up hurting your pal or making the harmful affair even more awful. Be extra sensitive.